Early March Madness Predictions

As the NFL nears the completion of another season, it gives us a reason here at red, white, and blue to voice our opinions on the upcoming March Madness tournament. Although it's about 9 weeks away, the season is in full swing. So without further adieu, here are a few early thoughts on the season thus far.

Surprise team of the year: Kansas State.

 K state has had a relatively quiet year up until this past week when they made a big splash taking down number one ranked Texas. They are currently 16-2 (3-1 in conference) and 2nd in the Big 12, only behind number 3 ranked Kansas. Look for the Wildcats to continue winning games and make some noise in the tournament.

Player of the Year: Luke Harangody

 Although he plays for the subpar Irish, Harangody is having an impressive year. He is currently 2nd in the nation in scoring, averaging 24.7 points a clip, while pulling down close to 10 boards a game. He has been consistent for the majority of this year and the Irish need to have him keep up his big numbers if they want to have any bit of a prayer in the tenacious powerhouse the Big East is.

Coach of the Year: John Calapari

 The coach of Kentucky has his team playing like they never even lost 14 games last year. In fact, there last lose actually dates back that far. The Wildcats are 18-0 beating two ranked teams on the way to this impressive start. They are one of the best teams in the NCAA this year, partly due to rookie sensation John Wall. On the few nights Wall actually struggles, the rest of the team has no problem picking him up. Look for the Wildcats to make a deep run into the tourney, possibly even cutting the nets down in a few months.


Final Four predictions: Kentucky, Villanova, Kansas, Syracuse

 These four teams have managed to dominate the NCAA thus far into the season, combining for a record of 68-3. All four teams obviously have NBA talent on their team and should shine in March. As for who wins it, I can't bet against my Jayhawks. They have a very deep team this year, and although they lost on the road at Tennessee, I feel their seniority will carry them through. It should be mentioned, my partner on this blog, (Mr. Chris "Pauly-D" Esperon) feels the final four will consist of Villanova, Michigan State, Syracuse and Kentucky, with Kentucky fist pumping their way to winning the title.